Posted on 09/30/2007 2:24:18 PM PDT by mdittmar
Indianapolis - The anticipation was palpable at airports throughout the state, Sunday. Family and friends waited anxiously for 49 Indiana National Guard Soldiers from the 38th Infantry Division who returned home safely from their 16-month long tour of duty in Iraq. During their deployment, the unit provided transportation support for military operations in Anbar Province.
To express gratitude and compensate for lost time, family and friends greeted the soldiers with applause, warm smiles, extra long embraces of love, and tears of joy.
"It's been a very emotional time. Just not knowing and not being able to talk to him," said Jill Perkins, wife of Sgt. Andrew Perkins.
Sgt. Andrew Perkins of Crawfordsville says he prays for his fellow military brothers and sisters who remain in Iraq. However now that he's home, he plans to focus on his growing family and his future.
"I'm just excited. It's been a long time," Sgt. Perkins said. "Looking forward to just settling back in. Getting back to civilian life."
Family and friends say Americans should stand united behind their troops regardless of whether or not they remain divided about the war.
"I know what happened in Vietnam, you know. They came back and a lot of people didn't support the war," said Venetta Hornaday. "I think we need to stand by our military in this country. They're fighting for us."
"I'll be glad when they're all back home. I think they'll all be back home," said Dorothy Houser.
Returning soldier, Pfc. Regina Dewbrew, has this message for those who have yet to come home -- "Keep your chin up and just stick to the mission and stay safe," said Pfc. Regina Dewbrew.
In all, 49 Indiana soldiers returned home from Operation Iraqi Freedom, Sunday. Forty-one of them were greeted at Indianapolis International Airport; 8 went home to South Bend, Evansville and Fort Wayne.
They should all run for elected office.
*applause*
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